WeChat, the most widely used messenger in China, is expected to strengthen its search capabilities by introducing a domestic artificial intelligence (AI) model, DeepSeek.
According to local media on the 16th, Tencent, which operates WeChat, is currently conducting a small-scale test applying the DeepSeek R1 model to its own search function. Some users can receive answers based on the DeepSeek R1 by selecting the 'AI search' option in the WeChat search bar.
The functionality description page of WeChat has added a phrase stating, 'This service includes the provision and utilization of the DeepSeek open-source large model.' Chinese media outlets that have directly used the service explained that the AI search results include recommended posts from official WeChat accounts and citation information from web pages, with an additional question function provided at the bottom of the page.
Local experts expect that DeepSeek's natural language processing capabilities will enhance the accuracy of WeChat's search. Analysts suggest that AI could provide more personalized answers by combining user chat history with information from official accounts. Furthermore, experts believe that combining DeepSeek's open-source characteristics with WeChat's vast ecosystem is likely to expand into various areas, including smart customer service.
WeChat has evolved beyond a simple messenger, becoming the most widely used social media platform and payment system in China, utilized not only for personal conversations but also for the operation of official accounts by corporations and government agencies. Accordingly, WeChat is predicted to play a role as a data source for DeepSeek.
Regarding these changes, Chinese netizens expressed their expectations, stating that the 'combination of national-level AI and a popular application is a 'game-changer,'' local media reported.